Vanuatu Tourism Office

What To Do in Vanuatu January issue new available

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 23:23:30 +0100

There are no translations available.

Are you traveling to Vanuatu soon? Download your copy of What to do in Vanuatu, January 2012 issue. We look forward to welcoming you to our humble shores.

Junior Exchange Development Program in Vanuatu

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:59:31 +0100

There are no translations available.

Media Release, Port Vila, Vanuatu, January 18th, 2012: Vanuatu Volleyball and New Zealand Volleyball in an endeavour to develop their countries junior beach volleyball players came together for a one-week Junior Development Program from the 4th to 10th January in Port Vila, Vanuatu. The aim of the one-week Junior Exchange Development Program was to give development players the opportunity for international competitions and provide appropriate training to maximise their potential. The Junior Exchange Development Program underpinning element provided a holistic approach, fostering players as “well rounded” athletes.

New Zealand athletes were exposed to a very different playing environment in the trying heat, while Vanuatu juniors were exposed to a higher level of competition. Furthermore, both countries experienced each other’s cultures and different playing style. Darrell Boyd Coach of the U17 New Zealand boy team said “All players developed their game and improved in a range of areas. Due to the experience there is increased motivation to continue, to train and to make other New Zealand teams.

Given the program’s success it would be great to become an annual event and expand the program to other Pacific National Federations.” The three day U17 Junior Competition sponsored by Digicel included nine girl’s teams both from New Zealand and Vanuatu, the boys U17 competition saw three boys teams from New Zealand and four boy’s teams from Vanuatu.

With the current success of the Vanuatu women’s beach volleyball team it was pleasing to see the development of their younger players also being successful. Loty Joe and Grace Nambo (VAN) aged only 14 years won the gold in the U17 Category against Claudia Colenso and Julia Hartley (NZL). Likewise with huge success of the New Zealand senior men’s team saw NZL finish first and second in the U17 boy’s category, with Vanuatu taking the bronze medal and showing huge improvement in the competition.

Accordingly the Junior Exchange Development Program plays an important role in developing of a large pool of talented junior players critical for Vanuatu and New Zealand international success at the senior levels.

Year-beginning letter (and eye candy)

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:05:03 +0100

There are no translations available.

By Judie Fein and Paul Ross: Dear Amigos, What do you do when a year has hurtled to a close, after tripping and falling and stumbling for 12 months? Do you focus on the spills, and vow to forego the frills? Do you sigh, cry, throw up your hands and ask why? Or, do you take your attention—something precious that belongs to you and you alone—and gently shift the focus elsewhere? Do you break or interrupt the attention-loop you are in, going over and over things that are painful or unproductive? Do you try to find a new perspective?

Follow your own instincts instead of the dictates of the crowd? What happens if you go to a place that feels soothing and inspiring to you, a place that distracts you and gently carries you away from your concerns—so that you can come back to your daily life invigorated and open-hearted?

We decided to put our attention on BEAUTY.

Not only things that are conventionally considered as lovely, but inner and outer beauty. Sometimes it was in an elder’s face. Other times, in a communal celebration. It showed up in four-leggeds, two-leggeds, and on the walls of caves.

It wowed us in magnificent hotels and restaurants, and in the quality of the architecture and the good will of the staff. Beauty was there for the beholder in landscapes, in the sky, on the water, under the water, in the glare of broad daylight, in the silence of night.

It was difficult to choose which form of beauty to focus on, but we finally made a choice.

Come with us to experience the beauty we found in LOCAL PEOPLE around the world in 2011.

We hope the energy, love, humor and openness these people exude will give you the joy, courage, stamina and hope to go back to your daily life with renewed gusto and peace.

What to do Vanuatu June issue available in PDF

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 23:26:31 +0100

There are no translations available.

What to do in Vanuatu, VTO’s official newspaper published by the Daily Post, June issue is now out and readily available in PDF also. Click here to download your copy. In this issue, there is a special feature on the Vanuatu Post Office on page 12, plus VTO news, Sports and Entertainment events, a Legend from Vanuatu, Maps and more.

What to do in Vanuatu May issue available in PDF

Tue, 24 May 2011 04:16:07 +0100

There are no translations available.

What to do in Vanuatu, VTO’s official newspaper published by the Daily Post, May issue is now out and readily available in PDF also. Click here to download your copy. In this issue, there is a special feature spread on the Port Vila to Ratua Jet Ski Raid on page 4, plus latest industry news supplied by the VTO and tour operators, sports events, and a legend from Vanuatu who was Chief Roimata, maps and more.

Pacific Partnership Departs Vanuatu

Wed, 11 May 2011 23:43:03 +0100

There are no translations available.

For release by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) R. David Valdez, Pacific Partnership 2011 Public Affairs: ESPIRITU SANTO, Vanuatu – The Pacific Partnership 2011 team departed Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS Cleveland (LPD 7) May 9 after 10 days of working side-by-side with the people of Vanuatu, marking the first time a U.S. Navy vessel has sailed to Vanuatu for a mission since World War II.

Joined by HMNZS Canterbury (L 421), HMAS Betano (L 133) and HMAS Balikpapan (L 126), Cleveland arrived in ni-Vanuatu (as they call themselves) waters equipped with civilian volunteers and military representatives from five of the U.S. service branches, as well as military personnel from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and France.

The joint, multinational team joined the ni-Vanuatu, engaging in medical, dental, engineering and veterinary civic action programs (MEDCAP, DENCAP, ENCAP, and VETCAP). They also participated in subject matter expert exchanges (SMEEs), covering topics like nursing, veterinary medicine, and even firefighting.
“It has been a great opportunity to work with the people of Vanuatu,” said Capt. Jesse Wilson, Pacific Partnership 2011 mission commander and Commander, Destroyer Squadron 23. “I am honored that we had the opportunity to renew and enhance our ties with a long time supporter of the United States, and I am humbled to command the Navy’s first mission here since World War II and the first ever Pacific Partnership mission to Vanuatu.”

Wilson initiated another first on Pacific Partnership’s mission in Vanuatu. He is the first mission commander to shift his pennant and command to a New Zealand vessel, amphibious support ship logistics HMNZS Canterbury (L 421)

The New Zealand Defence Force also brought a surgical team to work with the ni-Vanuatu.

While the mission objectives in an odd-numbered year don’t include surgery, the NZDF’s surgical team, along with each of the partner nations’ and ni-Vanuatu medical professionals proved to be instrumental in saving the life of an injured tourist.

“The entire team, from medics to doctors, saved this patient’s life,” said Cmdr. Steven Gabele, the medical contingent’s officer in charge. “They absolutely proved the value of interoperability. New Zealand surgeons stabilized the patient in a ni-Vanuatu hospital, an American doctor kept the patient stable while flying to the hospital in a French New Caledonian helicopter off of Canterbury with an Australian general practitioner coordinating all of the resources.”

Pacific Partnership also began work on the ENCAP part of the mission weeks before Cleveland arrived.

“The Seabees worked extremely well with the Vanuatu Mobile Force and the local apprentices,” said Lt. Wesley Howard, officer in charge of the advance echelon Construction Battalion 133 detachment. “With all of us working together, we were able to build water catchments, classrooms, and new bathrooms for three of the schools here on Santo. We were doing it for the kids.”

Humanitarian aid/disaster relief environments may very well bring out the best in people during the worst situations. Even when they work long hours healing the sick and injured, rebuilding what has become broken, and giving pets and livestock the care they need, the men and women of Pacific Partnership still go out to do a little more.

“The community service projects were very rewarding here in Vanuatu,” said Lt. Philip Ridley, Pacific Partnership 2011 chaplain. “We had an opportunity to provide hand-pedaled bicycles to children at a special needs school, share music and food, and engage with the people in a very personal way. I think all of our lives have changed.”

In 10 days, the multinational and multi-service Pacific Partnership team engaged local leaders, treated 6,068 medical patients, including 25 surgeries by the NZDF surgical team, 676 dental patients, cared for 118 animals, completed four engineering projects, including school buildings, bathrooms and a water catchment system, and engaged in 13 community service projects.

The Pacific Partnership team participated in 23 different SMEEs, including preventive medicine, veterinary medicine, primary care medicine, dental care and basic damage control. More than 1,600 host nationals came to these events where they and representatives from the partner nations spent over 3,100 contact hours together, trading methods and ideas.

Pacific Partnership is an annual humanitarian assistance mission sponsored by U.S. Pacific Fleet. This year, Pacific Partnership has completed its mission in Tonga and Vanuatu, and will continue on to Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and the Federated States of Micronesia.

April 2011 What to do in Vanuatu available

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 04:26:00 +0100

There are no translations available.

The Vanuatu Tourism Office's What to do in Vanuatu, April PDF newspaper is now ready. Get your copy by clicking here. Read, enjoy, and discover what matters here in Vanuatu!

March 2011 What to do in Vanuatu available

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 03:59:38 +0100

There are no translations available.

Vanuatu Tourism Office's tourist newspaper What to do in Vanuatu March 2011, in collaboration with The Vanuatu Daily Post, is readily available online. Inside the issue, features the land diving or nagol since we are in the season of the legendary "leap of faith" traditional festival that takes place in the island of Pentecost every year from April to June. Click here for your copy in PDF.

Happiness Starts Here

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 02:34:23 +0100

There are no translations available.

The Vanuatu Tourism Office recently received its ISLANDS Magazine copy from Sue Herrick, VTO’s North Americas Representative. The magazine carries a fantastic write up by David Lansing who came on a famil last year, beginning his story with, “I’m running late for lunch in Port Vila…”. You wouldn’t want to pause in the middle of reading. Click here and enjoy David’s article. Amanda Jones, a travel writer from the Los Angeles Times will also have her story on Vanuatu in upcoming weeks. The VTO would like to thank all industry members who supported David’s and Amanda’s 2010 famil.

Vanuatu Open Water Swim 18th June 2011

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 02:27:21 +0100

There are no translations available.

Press Release: The Vanuatu Ocean Swim is back with a new name and new management, it is now the Vanuatu Open Water Swim and the Swim is being organized by Event Logic. Same Swims, same courses as everyone has enjoyed in the past, just professionally managed. Event Logic is a divisional arm of EDGE (Vanuatu)ltd and set up to specifically run Outdoor Sporting Events. In 2010 they successfully ran the Wilco relay and the Vanuatu Adventure Race.
Event Logic is headed up by Troy Spann and Zeak Smith, two trusted names in the Vanuatu Tourism Community. Troy and Zeak have a ‘whatever it takes’ attitude to making these events great for all those involved. The boys are assisted by Justin Johnson from Moorings Hotel who is in charge of marketing and sponsorship for the Events.

Event Logic has the full support of VTO (Vanuatu Tourism Office), VHRA (Vanuatu Hotels & Resorts Association), Air Vanuatu, The Port Vila Master Bathers Association, ESTA (Espiritu Santo Tourism Association). Download information sheet here. Log onto eventlogicvanuatu.com/vanuatu-open-water-swim

Innovation at Village de Santo Resort, Espiritu Santo

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 04:58:36 +0100

There are no translations available.

The Centre for Tourism, Leisure and Work (CTLW) a research centre based at Southern Cross University, Australia is sponsoring an internship position focusing on marketing and tourism in the South Pacific region. Working with Village de Santo Resort, located on a small Pacific island, Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu this exciting opportunity offers an intern ‘hands on” experience introducing innovative eMarketing to a small tourism operation. Village de Santo specialises in creating a unique tourism experience for visitors by combining the natural beauty of the island with the local community and culture. Village de Santo Resort is a relatively new resort that is already innovating in the areas of sustainable tourism both environmentally and ethically. Read full article.

Espiritu Santo – island of hidden treasures, that matter

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:57:53 +0100

There are no translations available.

Personal account by Alcina Charlie (Vanuatu Tourism Office E-Marketing) on the brand launch in Esp. Santo : Saturday 26th March 2011: Arrival: Jimme Taea (co-vocalist, keyboardist), and I arrived at Santo Pekoa airport on Saturday 26th March around midday and our first taste of the island before our hostess picked us up was a gush of heat wave that had us sweating as if we’ve just come out of the shower. Oh yes, it was hotter than Vila, but little had I known that a refreshing reward awaited as soon we arrived at Village de Santo, a new boutique resort nestled on the outskirts of Mango Village along Red Corner road, only an 8-10 minutes drive from the airport and 3 minutes from Luganville’s main urban centre. As Beverly Anti, the resort manger and an aunty or bubu to local residents of Santo through her charity works for communities & villages, walked us through the gate and onto the premise, I was soaked into tranquillity surrounded by beautiful, lush, tropical gardens of ginger, palm, dwarf bamboo plants and bright yellow, red, and orange flowering shrubs neatly trimmed and planted outside each apartment for complete privacy. In the centre of the resort was an inviting pool for an afternoon dip. A brief hello from the staff and it was time to unwind. My apartment, number 4, was spacious, immaculate, spotless, and self-catering containing all modern facilities including a refrigerator and mini bar, microwave, toaster, plus every other holiday essentials for guests to have a pleasant holiday experience, excluding the telephone which can be accessed at the front reception – perfect for full relaxation and no disturbance. Wireless internet is available on site which makes online messaging to family possible without the need for calling.

I hit the shower which runs both cold and hot water, immediately after unpacking and changed into something comfortable and light before trotting down to the restaurant to order one of the best Beef Burgers I’ve ever indulged. 1606 Restaurant is named after the year of Pedro De Queros who was the Spanish explorer to first set foot on the island. After an enjoyable Beef Burger, kumara chips, and fresh lime juice, I was totally satisfied. I turned on the fan, rested myself on a comfortable, soft bed and fell asleep like a child on a hammock. Three hours later, I woke up and only then did I realize that my work involved with preparing for brand launches, back in Vila, did wear me out without my noticing and here was a perfect excuse to catch up on the energy loss! Naturally, it did come without my forcing it.

My mobile rang and it was a work colleague from Santo, offering a special welcome do and dinner where she and other colleagues were staying. Then soon after, a truck pulled up at the Village’s parking area, we drove into town across to Unity Park where Edou, a popular singer from New Caledonia and a Pacific music icon, was staging his concert. The town was swamped by thousands dancing and cheering away into the night. I was impressed and tempted to join the crowd but it was getting slightly late and I had a busy schedule tomorrow, and so an hour later I was dropped off at the resort.
What a first day experience on the island that I last visited, or to be more specific transited, twelve years ago. Already, I could sense there were more hidden treasures to discover.

Sunday 27th March 2011: Preparations & Santo outskirts
Breakfast came on a tray and small jugs of fresh orange juice, local fruits, cereal, toast, and coffee. A meeting was held at 9am at the Chief’s Bar between Beverly, who was incharge of the entertainment program for the brand launch, Kevin (keyboardist/vocalist), Jimme and myself. We discussed available sound equipments, bands, fees, plus set up time, followed by sound check, which we all agreed needed to happen that afternoon and into the evening while the Drokas mamas were decorating the stage. At 11am we drove off to meet Desmond who is responsible for Canal Studio and the hiring of sound equipments. Desmond is a youth from Santo who also plays in Santo’s top local reggae band “Steel Soul”. After Canal Studio, we ventured off to Ridley "tusker"’s home at Shapi area, then off to 26 Roots residence where I met with one of Santo’s most senior resident originally from England, Ms Caroline Nalo. Caroline spoke very softly, and with elegance as we exchanged greetings. I knew Caroline through her son Dave Nalo who is also very much involved in the development of Youth and Music in Santo.

Sharpi area was extraordinary, as we drove, I saw local expats driving their trucks filled with Ni-Vanuatu families, everyone well dressed as if they’ve all just come out of church together. As I hear stories on projects that Beverly and her husband Nabil are involved in to raise funds for village communities including the setting up a Sister Kinda program between Brisbane and Mango Station, their involvement in the development of the local music scene in Santo, and raising funds for building materials to complete an assessment centre in Sharpi for people with disabilities after discovering a local lady who looks after 25 disabled children at her home at any one time, I came to realize that these were some of Santo’s hidden heart-felt treasures. From there, I was beginning to discover a special side of Santo that exist between the local communities and local expats that live in Santo.

From further observations around Luganville and its outskirts, I saw that the roads were in good condition and could event fit 3 to 4 vehicles! After tracking down the equipment it was time for a lunch stop back at Village de Santo, and at 3pm, we would start transporting the equipments to Unity Park stage.

After another delicious lunch with Bev and Nabil at Restaurant 1606, I took off to my apartment, cooled off under the cold shower, had an hour’s rest, and then we drove off to Canal Studio, Alliance Francaise and Kevin’s residence to pick up the sound equipment and ship them off to the stage. By 5.30pm, Desmond started setting up the speakers, amps, mixers and sub woofers, and by 7pm we tested and sound checked.
The quality was crystal! We were very happy with the turn out, thanks to dear Desmond.

Arriving back at Village de Santo, Jimme and I got ready to entertain for around 2 hours, as a courtesy gig to thank Bev and Nabil for hosting us, and in return which we didn't expect, we were feasted to pizzas and seafood pasta which were simply divine to close off a long and tiring day.

Shut eye for me was around midnight but by then, I wasn’t overly exhausted, because I was still abuzz from all the excitement for tomorrow’s launch.

Monday 28th March 2011: Discover what matters...Vanuatu launches!
We were asked to be at the stage to start “making noise” or play music, at around 7.30am so I was up by 6.30am, had a cold shower, ate breakfast, then changed into my red uniform top and a long black skirt. Around 8am we arrived at the stage and soon after started playing music. The band that sound checked before Jimme and I was a full 6 piece gospel reggae band Redeem and they were fantastic. Kevin followed soon after performing several of his band’s hits. After 2 hours of lively entertainment to hype up the crowd before the launch ceremony, a colourful parade led by the Vanuatu Mobile Forces brass band, followed by cultural groups, and dignitaries, Sanma tourism industry, tour operators, local business houses, and the general public paraded from the Police Station to Unity Park.

The official ceremony was filled with an array of activities including cultural performances, a traditional knife dance from Malo Island, hanging of flower leis, speeches and remarks from Sanma province, the private sector, Sanma tourism council, the brand manager, Hon. Minister of Finance, Hon. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Department of Tourism, the cutting of ribbon and cake, dedication prayer, kava ceremony, a special song “Vanuatu Smile” performed by Jimme Taea and Alcina Charlie, refreshments, and lastly 2 to 3 hours of Santo’s top live bands rocking Unity Park up to 5pm.

There was a VIP guests cocktail held at the new Vanuatu National Provident Fund building, inside a spacious and beautiful conference room, where all government, provincial, and private sector dignitaries, as well as all tour operator reps assembled for finger food and drinks. During the function, there was a power point presentation by VTO’s brand manager, Ms Elizabeth Youdale, on VTO’s role in destination marketing leading onto why a brand such as Discover what matters Vanuatu, matters for Vanuatu. Throughout the function, Ms Alcina Charlie and Jimme Taea entertained from 1pm to 4pm.

We arrived back at Village de Santo around 5.30pm, worn out and tired. I showered, had a quick bite to eat, then off I went into my own little world far, far away. The last thing I recalled before dozing off, was thinking about was how successful the launch turned out and what a story this would make! It sure was a privilege to be a part of a milestone achievement, especially to be able to participate in it here on Santo.
I would be heading back to Vila tomorrow, and with me I would take memories and experiences I discovered here in Santo that matter very much especially in a fast and material world that we live in today, and one of them was appreciating one’s culture and living with its people. Thanks Bev and Nabile for looking after Jimme and I. No words can express how thankful we are. Your hospitality has been fantastic. Thank you dearly, and we wish you all the best!

Vanuatu’s Olympic Journey Starts with YOU

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 04:19:29 +0100

There are no translations available.

Media release: There is a saying and it goes “ to raise a child, you need a village”, but for the Vanuatu Women’s Beach Volleyball team to come of age at the 2012 London Olympics they will need more than a village, they will need the entire country behind them and a lot of cash. ABC correspondent Sian Gard follows the story. Four young mothers aged between 19 and 25 are not only hoping to make Olympic history for qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics, but just quietly they dream of Olympic medals as well.
For those of you that don’t know since 2006 there has been a handful of Ni Vanuatu women training with international and local sporting coaches, fitness coaches and experts in the Beach Volleyball field to make this dream come true. The dedication is consistent, the training grueling and the demands great both on and off the field. But the biggest challenge for the girls is funding the dream and gaining on the ground support here in Vanuatu. In one year alone the women have to attend numerous competitions internationally, to gain enough points to even been considered as serious sporting competitors.

So far they have had success and a number of sponsors locally have come on board to assist. But like all things representing a country costs money and money can come and go. Starting in April the team has to attend a competition in Sanya , China and then from there Shanghai, Beijing, Rome, Switzerland, Russia, Canada, Poland, Austria, Finland, Netherlands and Thailand. Olympics qualifications require the team to attend 12 international events throughout the year , totaling over 250 thousands US dollars in costs. A large majority of the funds came from a local sponsor last year, but circumstances have changed and the team could be left high and dry, missing out on their Olympic chance.

The Government and International Olympic Committee have committed to supporting the team, but the shortfall to make up the rest of the funds comes down to the players, their families and a small but dedicated team who work tirelessly to raise money voluntarily. But the pressure of training, the lack of funds and lack of staff is starting to have an impact. The Vanuatu Women’s Beach Volleyball team are now asking for community of Vanuatu to rally around them and give support. Next week the Australian Women’s Beach Volleyball team, currently ranked in Australia, will arrive in Vanuatu to train with the women’s team and share skills with the Ni- Vanuatu team.

As a highlight of the trip the Vanuatu Team and Australian team will be hosting an exhibition match on Saturday April 2nd at 2pm at Stade Stadium. The match which is expected to be a thrilling event will be followed by a Fashion Parade featuring the Men’s and Women’s Beach Volleyball team and the Australian Players, at The Grand Hotel and Casino. Tickets will cost only 2,000 Vatu and all funds will go towards the Vanuatu Women’s Beach Volleyball, World Tour, as part of the qualifying rounds to the Olympics. This is just one of many events that the volunteers and girls have to drive to raise funds towards their Olympic journey.

But London could be missed if the funds are not raised and grassroots support from communities and individuals is lacking. Debbie Masauvakalo the Manager of the team explains “Going on tour may sound glamour’s, but it is hard work, the team is away from their families months at a time and it can be very isolating and lonely.

They are in big cities representing our country and they have the added pressure of performing to qualify, they really do need the good wishes and financial support of the people back home.” She continues “ We want these women to represent Vanuatu in the world arena and lift our country up to the rest of the world, there is International media interest in the team, but hardly anyone here at home knows about them or the amazing things they doing for women and sport on an international stage. We should be very proud of them and the whole country should cheer them on to be the first Olympic team to represent Vanuatu. “ she adds “ Digicel, ANZ, The Grand Hotel & Casino, Coconut Palms Resort, Asco Motors , Splash swim wear and Vanuatu Post supported and we are so grateful for their support and without sponsors we would not even be able to go down this path. But we do need everyone to understand, it is not just the women of the team representing Vanuatu and carving their own path. They are Team Vanuatu when they step onto that world stage because they represent all of us and we need as many people as possible to be part of Team Vanuatu.”

There are challenges ahead for the team some personal, some financial and some which they have yet to discover. But if the determination of the girls and the team that supports them is anything to go by London 2012 is possible and when they step into the Olympic arena, the financial hardship, the personal sacrifice and will be worth it, as they raise the flag and represent Vanuatu. More information to go www.vanuatuvolleyball.org.

We're celebrating Discover What Matters!

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:03:05 +0100

There are no translations available.

The officiating of Vanuatu's new Discover What Matters took place last week, and now we're preparing for Santo, Tanna, New Caledonia, Australia and New Zealand. Friday 11th March was a day of celebration, music and festivity! Photos taken during the exciting launch can be viewed on Vanuatu Tourism's fan page here and on Pica Web Albums courtesy of John Nicolls.

Erakor Island trip bliss

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 03:18:14 +0100

There are no translations available.

By Alcina Charlie: Stepping ashore Erakor Island felt great since I last visited, which was two years and too long ago I must admit. Today the resort is tagged ‘new look, new feel, same tropical paradise’, and whilst on the island, it was crystal that the resort had gone through thorough revamp luring in the long gone ambience Erakor once had, but better this time. The premises looked immaculate, lush, and fresh. Now under the ownership of Ms Cris Hardman who also owns Lagoon Beach Resort Apartments and Villas, bookings have risen again after long periods of silence in past years. Onsite, we saw groups of couples and families having a good time on the beach, or perched on sun lounges reading and having a private moment. Brenda, Nancy, Rachel, and I visited last Tuesday and were impressed.
On arrival, we were met by the bright and bubbly guest relations officer Natalie, and were led to the restaurant for a refreshing fruit punch to cool off on hot afternoon. Natalie gave a run down on the facilities, services, including an insight on future plans for Erakor. We were then met by Linden Lawson, Building and Renovations Manager, followed by a quick tour around the resort with Natalie. The restaurant ‘Aqua on Erakor’ menu had choices to suit all taste buds, light and heavy. Guests could start the day with a breakfast buffet and end with a succulent seafood platter or Santo eye fillet steak. In between, a delicious menu of tropical juices and smoothies can be ordered at the Calypso Juice Bar, plus selection of rolls, wraps, burgers, ocean fresh fish, home-made cakes and tropical fruits. Erakor Island hosts functions catering from 2 to 100 people at various locations from cocktail parties on Calypso Beach to seafood buffets in Aqua Restaurant.

What a pleasant surprise when we arrived at a waterfront villa. The villa was freshly painted, spic and span, and carried a relaxing atmosphere. Wall decorations were frangipani and hibiscus portraits which ideally added to the tropical ambience. The king bed and sitting area opened to a timber deck and looked directly to the sea capturing the ocean breeze. Our next stop was the Loft Villa which was ideal for families or friends and slept up to 5 people with a separate mezzanine loft. When we got to the far end villa next to Sunset Beach, we noticed that it had a spa jaccuzi in the sitting room viewing the ocean, perfect to get totally spoilt! After the villas was the Starfish Lodge. Before reaching Starfish, we passed two of the islands’ most ancient and monumental sites which were Efate’s first missionary’s house and relics of the church built in the 1800’s. Surrounded by gardens, lush greenery, and coconut palms, this looked perfect for an island wedding. We saw the cemented pulpit and was told that the site has re-opened again for weddings. Bookings have flowed in already. Starfish Lodge could fit large groups, extra wedding guests, and included up to 8 bedrooms set as doubles, twins, and triples. There was a huge lounge area, fully self contained kitchenette, and M/F showers and toilets, three in each set.

As we approached the water sports hut, we noticed that it had also been refurbished with bamboo walls and ceilings, and new stock. Kayaks included ones that you could see through completely, great for those who want to just rest out on the lagoon and watch the marine life through their kayaks. When asked about in-house activities guests can do on the island, Natalie mentioned craft-making, beach volley, coconut climbing demonstrations, trivia nights, karaoke, beach parties, and crab racing. There was plenty to keep guests occupied on the island if they wanted. Just over an hour and a half and it was time to go. We head for the jetty but were asked for a final stop at Aqua to sample chef’s special seafood, and curry nibbles, accompanied by the signature fruit punch. I savored every moment of it especially the prawns in mango sauce which clearly would make anybody want to revisit. The trip concluded with an exchange of thank you, good byes, and a ferry ride across to the mainland before returning to work. Visit Erakor Island Resort on www.erakorislandresort.com. Phone +678 26983.

The VTO we would like to thank Erakor Island Resort management for the invitation and we applaud you for all the work done to the resort. We look forward to future developments and working closely together in promoting Vanuatu.

Congratulations to all Vanuatu Tourism Awards winners!

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 05:10:45 +0100

There are no translations available.

The Vanuatu Tourism Office would like to congratulate all finalists and winners of the Vanuatu Tourism Awards 2010. Winners for this years awards went to: Best Adventure/ Eco tour: The Edge Cascade Abseiling, Best scenic tour: Off road Adventure- Bush and Beach tour, Best tour Guide: Timothy Kaltakeira (Edge Abseiling), Best Front of House Employee: Kenneth Molwak (Warwick Le Lagon), Best Back of House employee: Maylin Roy (Chantillys), Best New Business: Lotus Day Spa, Best specialist Tourism Service: Event Logic, Best restaurant: La Tentation, Best Adventure/Bungalow accommodation: Tam Tam Bungalows- Malekula, Best Budget accommodation: Coconut palms Resort, Best self contained accommodation: Island Magic Resort, Best Boutique accommodation: Eratap resort, Best hotel: Chantillys on the Bay, Best resort: Eratap resort, Outstanding Contribution to tourism by an individual: David Miles. Special award to Air Vanuatu for 23 years of contribution to tourism development. Also thanks to the Vanuatu Tourism Awards committee, VHRA members, and associated members that participated and assisted towards a successful awards night at Warwick Le Lagon Resort, whom by the way put on a beautiful venue set up for the event. Well done everybody!

What To Do In Vanuatu for November/December 2010 now availale online

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:51:47 +0100

There are no translations available.

Click here to download your complimentary What To Do in Vanuatu newsletter issue 23, for November to December 2010, and plan for a festival holiday with so much to discover, experience and enjoy amongst our beautiful islands! The What To Do in Vanuatu newspaper is Vanuatu Tourism Office's official newspaper, published by the Vanuatu Daily Post.

Vanuatu’s new look and feel turn heads and raise smiles at Sydney Airport

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 23:42:05 +0100

There are no translations available.

Two supersite billboards that show Vanuatu’s new brand imagery and a tagline are up at Sydney Airport, Australia! Measured at 12.66m x 3.35m, the billboard are designed to impact affluent business travelers waiting for taxis, and a driving audience coming from the Virgin and Jetstar pick up zones. The supersite billboards are impacting all drivers on approach to Sydney International Airport passenger drop off zones, and raising much interest and awareness on beautiful Vanuatu.

Custom fishing festival on Rah, Motalava just around the corner

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 03:03:47 +0100

There are no translations available.

Every year, few weeks before Saint Andrew's day at the end of November, all the villagers on Rah island, an island in the far northern province of Vanuatu called Torba, join to make a 400meter fishing net with coconut leaves and the net is taken out to sea. Early in the morning on high tide, the villagers form a large semi circle out in the lagoon and pull the fish net together forming a loop. Following the tide, as it drops, villagers move in towards the center reducing the size of their loop until all the fish are trapped then caught at the lowest tide. This is one of Vanuatu's most fascinating community festival to watch and experience! The festival runs from 26th November to early December. Email Wrecks to Rainforest on info@wreckstorainforest.com for more information.

Moon unveils first Vanuatu Tourism campaign this week - includes new logo and brand identity

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 02:22:50 +0100

There are no translations available.

Release by Moon Communications Group in Campaign Brief, Tuesday 16, November 2010: The Vanuatu Tourism Office will this week debut its first ever destination marketing campaign, aiming to significantly increase the number of Australian and New Zealand travellers visiting its largely unexplored tropical islands. Developed by Moon Communications Group, Sydney (part of STW Group) after winning the competitive pitch earlier this year, the brand campaign will use the new tagline 'Discover What Matters' along with stunning emotive concepts to communicate the island's distinct offering.
Targeting younger couples, adventure seekers and empty nesters, it comes to life through a strategic media buy that uses digital, outdoor media and national print to drive brand awareness and tactically motivate travellers to visit Vanuatu's website. It also includes a new logo and brand identity to complete Vanuatu's new look and feel. A revamped website and other marketing elements such as co-op advertising, a travel trade site and a social media network campaign are also due to be launched within the next few months.

"We wanted to create a strong emotional connection between the audience and Vanuatu's people. In doing so, we've placed focus on the people and the emotions that they experience when in Vanuatu. It's an immersive place where you can get up close and interact with the locals and the landscape, and the photography is reflective of that," said Janaya Galloway, Moon's associate creative director.

"The use of the vivid colour palette, the visual language that draws inspiration from traditional sand drawings, plus the mixed use of human emotion and landscape photography are all used to stimulate the senses and promote the destination as a place where people can choose to completely relax, explore or immerse themselves in the vibrant culture," said Galloway.

"It's exciting to be part of this significant milestone for Vanuatu Tourism. We wanted to clearly communicate the true hidden gem that is Vanuatu and ensure it is on everyone's must-do list. Creatively, we also wanted to take a different approach to tourism advertising. We've explored a different way to differentiate, and motivate," added Galloway.

The launch of this campaign follows Moon's work on a number of other destination-based branding and strategy projects, including the recently launched Brand Sydney, Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, the country of Jamaica and the city of Parramatta.

VTO would like to sincerely thank and acknowledge its brand creative partner Moon Communications Group for all work put into the new brand, thanks team!